Childcare proceedings and parents with autism
A recent judgment incorporated a useful overview of how best to approach cases involving a parent with Autistic Spectrum Disorder and the reasonable adjustments which may need to be made.
In the case of D and E (Parent with Autism) [2020] EWFC B18 (11 May 2020), one of the parents is an autistic person, having been diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder part-way through court proceedings.
This article by Anna Sutcliffe, is a barrister at 1KBW, published 12/06/2020 in the Local Government Lawyer website, examined the case in detail.
She notes this case: “Highlights the importance of ensuring that where a parent is identified as having Autism Spectrum Disorder an appropriate, targeted assessment is undertaken. The outcome of such an assessment in this case was drastically different from the conclusions reached in the initial assessment where no adjustments had been made”.
The significance of making reasonable adjustments to ensure fairness for all is underlined.